Driveways just don’t stay clean on their own. Over time, they will collect more and more debris, eventually becoming dark shadows of their former selves. Eventually, you’ll notice this problem, and you’ll want to do something about it. That’s probably why you’re here—because you want to learn how to power wash a driveway. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll give you an overview of the process and show you what to expect.
We are JayBee Pressure Washing, the #1 power washing business in Atlanta, GA. We want to teach you our driveway cleaning process, but if you would prefer professional service, reach out to us! We’re ready to help you schedule an appointment.
Why Driveway Cleaning Is Important
Why should you learn how to power wash a driveway? Well, if your driveway isn’t cleaned, you’ll have to deal with the consequences. For example, your driveway will become dirtier and dirtier, stealing away your property’s beauty. The longer this is allowed to happen, the worse your property will look. This is especially bad for business owners who need to attract customers in order to make a profit.
Additionally, surface debris can actually damage your property in the long run. This won’t be noticeable at first, but after years, it can result in leaks, cracks, and worst of all, costly repairs. In other words, not cleaning your driveway will make you lose money.
We can’t stress this enough: it’s important to power wash your driveway at least once per year. By learning how to power wash a driveway, you can do this work on your own.
How Long Does Driveway Cleaning Take?
How long does it take to power wash a driveway? This obviously varies from project to project, but a good baseline is four to five hours. This will give you enough time to figure out how power washing equipment works and clean your driveway—every square foot of it.
Don’t attempt to do your driveway cleaning on a day when you have lots of appointments and other obligations. You could wind up in a situation where you try rushing through your work just so you’re on time for the next thing.
What Will I Need For Driveway Cleaning?
To learn how to power wash a driveway, you’ll need the correct equipment. We’ve provided a simple checklist of what you’ll need below.
- Pressure Washer
- Attaching Hose and Nozzle
- Basic Pressure Washing Detergent
- Sodium Hypochlorite and Spray Applicator
- Safety Equipment
We want to take some time to emphasize the safety aspect of power washing. Pressurized water is a force, not a toy for you to underestimate. Never point the hose at yourself, and always wear safety gear, including goggles, gloves, full-length pants, and closed-toe shoes. That way, you are less likely to bruise or cut your skin with pressurized water.
Clear the Driveway Ahead of Time
If your driveway still has parked cars on it, you won’t be able to pressure wash it. So take some time to move those cars to a temporary location. Additionally, you’ll want to move any other items out of the way, including decorations and outdoor furniture.
Don’t forget to cover your flower beds and gardens, too. That way, they will be safe from pressurized water. Using tarps or drop cloths is the best way to go.
Chemically Pretreating the Driveway
Before power washing your driveway, there are things you can do to make the work easier for yourself. For example, we highly recommend chemically pretreating your driveway with sodium hypochlorite. By doing so, you’ll break down stubborn debris, leading to higher-quality results at the end of your project.
Use a spray applicator to put a thin layer of sodium hypochlorite on the driveway. Then, wait fifteen minutes for debris to be broken down. This will make it much easier to completely revitalize your driveway.
Power Washing the Driveway
If you’ve made it this far, you’re finally at the moment of truth: learning how to power wash a driveway and take it back from the clutches of surface debris. The amount of water pressure you’ll need to use depends on your driveway’s material. Here are a few examples of possible materials, as well as the respective water pressure setting:
- Asphalt Driveways: 2,000–3,000 PSI
- Concrete Driveways: 2,500–3,500 PSI
- Brick Driveways: 1,500–2,500 PSI
- Paver Driveways: 1,500–2,500 PSI
We recommend washing your driveway in a simple, row-by-row manner. By doing so, you’ll be able to easily keep track of what you have already cleaned and what still needs your attention. Watch your driveway transform before your very eyes! It’s the key to transforming your property into its best self.
Considering Professional Driveway Cleaning?
Don’t want to learn how to power wash a driveway? Does the process intimidate you? Don’t worry because there is an alternative. By reaching out to a professional business, you won’t have to worry about power washing your driveway on your own. Instead, you can take some time to relax while the team at JayBee Pressure Washing does the work for you.
What are the benefits of professional driveway cleaning? With this service, you’ll be able to save your time and money as our experts restore your driveway. Because our team is experienced in the power washing process, they’ll provide you with high-quality results that beat the DIY equivalent. We’ll bring the necessary equipment, too. No need for you to buy it or learn how to use it.
Cost of Professional Driveway Cleaning
How much should you expect to pay for professional driveway cleaning? We provide custom quotes based on the size of the surface you need us to clean. There are never hidden fees or surcharges, either!
Contact us online to get a free cost estimate for your project today. Then, choose a time and date for your appointment. The team at JayBee Pressure Washing looks forward to power washing your driveway and bringing beauty back to your property for a fair price.
